written by:

Peyton Manning wasn't in pads Wednesday when the Denver Broncos began preparations for the Washington Redskins and did not practice.

Manning has a minor ankle injury and should practice Thursday, coach John Fox said. It is the first time Manning has not practiced since joining the Broncos.

"It's not serious, just sore," Fox said. "We wanted to make sure it gets healed up properly."

Fox said he did not know when the injury occurred in Sunday's loss at Indianapolis.

It was the Broncos' head trainer Steve Antonopulos (also known as "Greek") who made the final decided that Manning should rest Wednesday.

"It's Greek's call," Manning said. "I can assure you I didn't go down without a fight."

Manning added: "I still firmly believe in HIPPA (laughing) and so I will refer all questions to the injury report. You can talk to 'Greek' and good luck getting that interview."

The 37-year-old quarterback was sacked four times and knocked down a few others times in the 39-33 loss to the Colts. He never left the game. Manning has been sacked nine times this season.

After stretching with his teammates Wednesday, Manning donned his helmet but was strictly an observer as backup Brock Osweiler and No. 3 quarterback Zac Dysert took snaps during the first part of practice that was open to reporters.

Manning chatted with Fox and offensive coordinator Adam Gase while his teammates practiced.